Jeremiah 33: 14-16 (NCV)

The Lord says, "The time is coming when I will do the good thingI promised to the people of Israel and Judah.In those days and at that time, I will make a good branch sprout from David's family. He will do what is fair and right in the land.At that time Judah will be saved, and the people of Jerusalem will live in safety. The branch will be named: “The Lord Does What Is Right."

Family trees are interesting. It shows us from whom we came. They allow us to transport ourselves from generation to generation, imagining the way our ancestors lived. For many, discovering roots of their family tree is exciting. I once was excited about my family roots, but now I have second thoughts.

I am related to General Robert E. Lee. For my whole life, this was something our family claimed openly. Yes, he was a confederate general, but he was an important figure in history, and our family was descended from this historical figure!

I have to admit, the best part of this lineage is the passing down of Mary Anna Lee’s gingerbread recipe. Mmmmm! It’s so tasty!

Still, with recent events, I am questioning that pride. How can I be excited about such a controversial man?

Jesus’ family stemmed from King David. What a wonderful lineage! King David was a man after God’s own heart, and to be a descendant of such a man must have caused a great sense of pride. However, David was an adulterer and a murderer in the notorious tale of David and Bathsheba.

Perhaps part of this lineage from David was a reminder of the sinfulness in all of us, it reminds us that we are in need of a savior, Christ the King.

Pray: Lord, we all came from somebody, but we know that ultimately we will go to You. Thank you for being my Heavenly father. Amen